Trump Warns Colombia’s President Petro After Maduro’s Capture: “Watch Your Back”
Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Colombian President Gustavo Petro following the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. This operation raises concerns about drug trafficking and its implications for Colombia.
Trump’s Warning to Colombia’s President Petro
During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump reacted to Petro’s comments about the U.S. military action. He emphasized the dangers posed by Colombia’s drug manufacturing. Trump stated, “He has factories where they make cocaine. It’s being sent to the United States. So, he should watch his back.”
Context of the Warning
Weeks prior, Trump had made similar remarks, hinting at Petro’s hostile stance toward the U.S. When asked if he would speak with Petro, Trump declined and said, “I hope he’s listening. He will be next.”
- Date of Capture: January 6, 2024
- Location: Caracas, Venezuela
- Next Steps: Maduro will be transported to New York to face federal charges.
Reactions from Colombia
Petro was among the first regional leaders to address Maduro’s capture. He stressed the need for peace and dialogue, rejecting what he described as aggression towards Venezuela’s sovereignty. Petro stated, “Internal conflicts between the peoples are resolved by the peoples themselves in peace.”
Imagery of Maduro’s Capture
Images have emerged showing Maduro detained aboard the USS Iwo Jima, with his eyes blindfolded. This incident marks a significant shift in U.S.-Latin America relations concerning drug trafficking and sovereignty.
